News|Crimes Against HumanityUN accuses paramilitary RSF of committing war crimes in Sudan’s el-FasherUN rights chief urges probe as new report details mass killings, sexual violence and targeted attacks against civilians.
The United Nations human rights office has reported that the Sudanese paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) committed war crimes during their takeover of Sudan’s western city of el-Fasher in 2025. This report presents evidence suggesting that these…
The United Nations human rights office has reported that the Sudanese paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) committed war crimes during their takeover of Sudan’s western city of el-Fasher in 2025. This report presents evidence suggesting that these actions may also constitute a crime against humanity.
The United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights released a report indicating that the RSF and allied groups engaged in activities that could be classified as war crimes. These acts include:
Murder Intentional attacks against civilians Sexual violence, including rape Torture Use of starvation as a weapon of war
Such activities, if part of a widespread or systematic attack on a civilian population, may be considered a crime against humanity.
The RSF gained control of el-Fasher, the capital of North Darfur state, on October 26, 2025, following the withdrawal of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF). This event occurred after an 18-month siege that isolated the city from essential supplies, leading to mass starvation warnings. Tens of thousands evacuated the city amidst reports of violence.
The United Nations human rights office has reported that the Sudanese paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) committed war crimes during their takeover of Sudan’s western city of el-Fasher in 2025.
The report, based on interviews with over 140 victims and witnesses, described a mass killing at an El Fasher University dormitory. RSF fighters attacked the building, which housed approximately 1,000 civilians, using heavy weapons, resulting in about 500 fatalities and numerous injuries.
Additional documented incidents include summary executions, targeting civilians accused of collaborating with the SAF. One reported case involved RSF fighters executing approximately 300 young men in el-Fasher.
UN human rights chief Volker Turk has called for credible and impartial investigations into the events at el-Fasher. These investigations aim to ensure accountability for those responsible, using all available legal mechanisms, including Sudanese courts and international bodies such as the International Criminal Court.
Turk also urged all parties involved in the Sudan conflict to cease human rights violations and called on third countries to uphold the arms embargo and prevent further violence.
Continued violence in Sudan has been reported, including recent incidents involving RSF drone attacks, leading to civilian casualties.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.
